The Kural · Chapter
XLIV: Eschewing of Faults explained
This chapter emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and the avoidance of faults such as haughtiness, anger, parsimony, and overconfidence.
What happens
This chapter emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and the avoidance of faults such as haughtiness, anger, parsimony, and overconfidence. It advises princes and individuals to guard against weaknesses, correct their own faults before judging others, and maintain discretion to thwart enemies.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The emotional and psychological peak occurs when the narrative shifts from external conflict to an internal, e…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Virtue and Righteousness
The chapter focuses on cultivating virtue by eschewing faults like haughtiness, anger, and parsimony.
- Statecraft and Governance
Specific advice is given to princes regarding faults such as parsimony and overconfidence, highlighting the importance of self-correction in leadership.
Characters to notice
- Thiruvalluvar
Author of the Kural, providing moral teachings on eschewing faults.
- the Kural
The text itself, containing the verses on fault avoidance.
Key passages
“Behold the man who is free from haughtiness and anger and the vulgar passion: there is a dignity about him that adorneth his prosperity.”
A person who avoids pride, anger, and base desires possesses a dignity that enhances their success.
Opening verse emphasizing the value of humility and self-control.
“Guard thyself jealously against weaknesses: for they are the foes that will lead thee to ruin.”
Protect yourself carefully from your own flaws, as they are enemies that can destroy you.
Warning about the destructive power of personal weaknesses.
“If the prince correcteth his own faults and then looketh into those of others, where is the ill that can approach him?”
A ruler who first reforms himself before judging others is invulnerable to harm.
Advice on leadership and moral authority.
